With so many pint-size crossovers available in today’s market, it can be hard to figure out where to start looking. That’s where we come in. If you are searching for a compact SUV, you should start by comparing the 2020 Chevy Equinox vs 2020 Nissan Rogue. The share the same class and offer similar capabilities. However, they vary greatly in almost every way.
Ideal for smaller families, these two vehicles both seat five passengers with ample room in the back for groceries, luggage, or sports gear. Let’s take a look at some of their differences.
Power and Performance
The first noticeable difference between the Equinox and the Rogue is what’s under the hood. If you choose the 2020 Chevy Equinox, you can decide between two engines. One is a turbocharged 1.5-liter 4-cylinder coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission that pushes out 170 hp and 203 lb-ft of torque. It offers drivers an exceptional fuel economy set at 28 mpg combined (26 city/31 highway). The other option is a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine mated with a 9-speed automatic transmission that generates 252 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain comes with Tow/Haul mode, which enables the vehicle to pull up to 3,500 pounds. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive can be equipped onto any version of the Equinox with the exception of the base L model.
On the other hand, the Rogue only comes with one engine. That’s the larger 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 170 hp and 175 lb-ft of torque. Equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and FWD, it gets about 29 mpg combined (26 city/33 highway). AWD is optional on all trims. Please note that this vehicle can only tow a maximum of 1,102 pounds. That is significantly less than the Equinox, so you will be limited with the type of equipment you can bring along during outings.
Safety Features
Long gone are the days of having to shell out all of your hard-earned cash to get a vehicle with advanced safety features. Today, the Equinox and the Rogue come standard with state-of-the-art systems that are meant to protect you and your family on the road.
On the new Equinox base model are features such as forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, automatic high-beams for enhanced visibility, and a rearview camera for getting in and out of tight parking spots. Moving up to the LS version of the Equinox will add the Teen Driver system. This advanced safety feature disables the vehicle’s stereo until the driver fastens his/her seatbelt. It also provides parents with a driving report card, which can be handy in adjusting training techniques when necessary. If you want blindspot monitoring, you should go for the LT model. Also optional for the Premier, you can add a 360-degree camera system to give you a surround-view of anything near your vehicle.
For the Nissan Rogue, standard safety features include blindspot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, automatic high beams, and intelligent lane intervention. The SV version adds reverse automatic braking and rear parking sensors. This will help to prevent fender benders, especially with parallel street parking. Lastly, the top-tier SL model adds Nissan’s ProPilot Assist suite of safety features. This cluster includes steering assist and stop-and-go adaptive cruise control that can take over driving in rush hour traffic. This model also has a surround-view camera system.
Tech Features
When it comes to tech and entertainment options, user-friendliness and the number of speakers can be a deciding factor. That’s why the Equinox is well-equipped with nifty entertainment options from the base level. No one wants a shoddy speaker system! Displayed on a 7-inch touchscreen, the vehicle’s infotainment system operates with a 6-speaker stereo and Bluetooth phone/audio connectivity. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also included for seamless music streaming. If that’s not enough, there is also a 4G LTE Wifi hotspot to keep you connect to the outside world everywhere you go. On the LT model, you get satellite radio added as well. Finally, the Premier adds a wireless charging pad to easily recharge your smartphone. A premium Bose stereo can also be added to this version of the Equinox.
As for the Nissan Rogue, there are several cool tech features starting at the base trim. It features a comparable infotainment interface that is also displayed on a 7-inch touchscreen. Operating with Bluetooth connectivity, it also has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Skipping over the mid-level SV model, the top-tier SL gets a premium 9-speaker Bose stereo system with two subwoofers. This high-quality system delivers a powerful music experience comparable to the Equinox’s top model. The SL also features added navigation.
Comfort and Convenience
Now let’s get into the added comforts and conveniences of both vehicles. For the Equinox L, you can easily adjust the driver’s seat manually to suit your height, and keyless entry/ignition makes slipping behind the wheel a breeze. Skipping over the LS and moving to the LT model, this version gets heated front seats with power-adjustability. For the Premier model, heated front seats are included for comfort during the bitter winter months.
On the Nissan Rogue, the most notable comfort and convenience features come in on the SV version. Featuring heated front seats that are power-adjustable, you can find the perfect position and stay warm. The premium SL adds subtle leather upholstery throughout the cabin for an elegant look and feel.
Exterior Styling
When you look at a vehicle for the first time, you probably take note of the color. The 2020 Chevy Equinox is available in ten various paint colors, many of which are metallic. You can choose from Summit White, Iridescent Pearl Tricoat, Mosaic Black Metallic, Nightfall Gray Metallic, Silver Ice Metallic, Midnight Blue Metallic, Pacific Blue Metallic, Chocolate Metallic, Cajun Red Tintcoat, and Cayenne Orange Metallic. The Equinox also comes standard with LED daytime running lights, heated side mirrors, and automatic headlights for enhanced visibility. The power liftgate is also included in the higher trims. This is great for when you need to load up the back of the vehicle, but your hands are full of shopping bags.
On the other hand, the Nissan Rogue comes in nine shiny paint colors, including Glacier White, Pearl White Tricoat, Brilliant Silver Metallic, Gun Metallic, Monarch Orange Metallic, Scarlet Ember Tintcoat, Caspian Blue Metallic, Midnight Pine Metallic, and Magnetic Black Pearl.
LED daytime running lamps also come standard on the Nissan Rogue S model, similar to the Equinox base. The hands-free liftgate is added onto the mid-level SV model and can be very handy when your hands are full.
Choosing the Right SUV
When it comes to making the decision about which petite SUV is right for you, this can be a bit daunting. However, with the information provided, you can make an informed decision and choose the model that best suits your lifestyle.
